Far from the abstraction of most university design projects, UTS students were forced to consider real problems pertaining to Sydney and then generate realistic and implementable solutions, while working alongside external partners.

“In this project, design is conceived of in its widest and most exciting sense — as an agent for change in a complex world,” says the project co-ordinator, Dr Lizzie Muller.

One of the projects on display is a proposal for a soon-to-be-decommissioned Sydney Water pumping station.

After considering land use, building heritage and the changing nature of the city, a group of students proposed that the Guildford station be transformed into a vibrant space for the community.

“Instead of fencing the site off, vandalism can be deterred and heritage buildings preserved if there are people picnicking, cycling or attending events at the site,” said studio leader Professor Douglas Tomkin.